The Difference Between Old School and New School

User Rating: 9 | Kid Icarus NES
By cd19 | Review Date:
Kid Icarus is a cult classic title from the original Famicom Disk System and Nintendo Entertainment System. This platformer features challenging game play, in which you play as the beloved character Pit (new players will recognize Pit from Super Smash Brother Brawl). To date, it is still one of the most unique gameplay experiences. The game consists of 4 levels, 3 of which contain 3 stages and a dungeon. The gameplay varies greatly from level to level, which makes it feel like a refreshing experience throughout. The level of difficulty which initially seems insurmountable, drops off significantly after receiving upgrades, or after passing level 1-3. The plot is based off a tale from Greek mythology,where a young boy is given wings made of wax, and is told by his Father to never fly too close to the Sun. Eventually the young boy flies too close to the Sun, his wings melt, and he falls to his death. Icarus features a memorable soundtrack, and a sequel has be in demand for over 15 years. The only sequel was a GameBoy title which did not receive the same amount of praise as the original Famicom/NES version. Gamers who started playing during the 4th generation (Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis,etc), may have a hard time understanding why this game is regarded so highly. The main complaint from many Kid Icarus players, is that the difficulty is overbearing. Understandably so, with games becoming easier and easier by the generation. Many publishers do not want to put off fans by releasing a highly difficult game. Examples include The Legend of Zelda and Castlevania series. The aforementioned series are still amazing, and both have grown exponentially over the years and so has game design.

Game design is the single reason why gamers who entered during the 4th generation will have trouble with Nintendo's cult classic. Today, games have save points scattered everywhere, which typically restore a character's HP. Newer games have a difficulty setting. Mix all that in with video walk throughs, online FAQs, and you got yourself a moderately easy game.

Earlier titles from the 3rd generation didn't have these options or assist tools. Games from this era were also a lot shorter, as the cartridges held a lot less data. Fans get their money's worth from a difficult game. Imagine if Icarus was a breeze, and could be beaten on the first play through in half an hour after downloading it on the VC. Anyone would clearly be disappointed. Games like Icarus, Contra, and Ninja Gaiden, all test your patience and focus. I find myself not focusing in a lot of current games, because I don't have to. I know the adventure is gonna be around 40 hours long, and feature save points around every turn. I don't need to be perfect. Kid Icarus tests players in many ways. Are you the type who will be frustrated when things don't go your way? Or will you re-group your thoughts and ask yourself what you can do differently the next time your in the same situation? Kid Icarus is beautiful because the game isn't difficult due to poor design. You can always critique your game play style and find a better way to advance through the levels. I prefer to spend time focusing and becoming a better player, and coming out feeling accomplished.

Kid Icarus is simple and challenging, which is what many great series consist of. Some players bash the sound and graphics, but we are talking about a game from 1986. The Japanese version had far superior sound (due to the Famicom Disk System's FM synthesis),not to mention save slots instead of passwords, so grab that one if your a die hard fan. The R&D development team that made this game, worked on titles such as Metroid, Dr. Mario, Duck Hunt,Excite Bike, Wario and other classic titles. Unfortunately, they don't receive the worldwide recognition that they should. I don't care too much about the casual versus hardcore fan argument, but I will tell you this, if you stick with Kid Icarus, there is nothing casual about you.

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